On January 31, 2026, former Deputy President and leader of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), Rigathi Gachagua, issued a stinging critique of the government’s response to the devastating drought currently ravaging North Eastern Kenya.
Calling the situation a “dire humanitarian crisis,” Gachagua has urged President William Ruto to immediately declare the drought a national disaster to unlock urgent funding and international aid.
Gachagua’s Plea: Why North Eastern Kenya Needs a “National Disaster” Declaration Now
The drought in regions like Mandera, Wajir, and Garissa has reached a catastrophic tipping point. Reports from early 2026 indicate that over 25,000 livestock have perished in Mandera County alone. Gachagua, in a statement released via his social media handles, painted a grim picture of the reality on the ground—one where even the most resilient creatures are failing to survive.
“Today, conditions have deteriorated so severely that even camels—animals that have evolved to endure the harshest environments on earth—are dying from thirst and hunger. If camels cannot survive, what hope remains for human beings?” — Rigathi Gachagua, Jan 31, 2026.
1. The “Camels are Dying” Warning
The death of camels is a significant ecological and economic red flag. In pastoralist communities, the camel is the ultimate “safety net.” When these animals begin to drop from exhaustion and dehydration, it signals that the water table has collapsed and pasture is non-existent.
Worsening Hunger: Gachagua highlighted that widows and orphans are the hardest hit, often going for days without a single meal.
Collapse of Livelihoods: With the backbone of the regional economy (livestock) decimated, thousands of families are being pushed into permanent poverty.
2. A Question of Accountability: Sh200 Billion Disbursed?
In a move that adds a layer of political heat to the humanitarian crisis, Gachagua questioned the whereabouts of funds previously allocated to the region.
The Funds: He pointed out that approximately Sh200 billion has been disbursed to Mandera and the wider North Eastern region over the years through the National Treasury, the Equalisation Fund, and donor partners.
The Critique: Gachagua accused local and national leaders of “neglect and greed,” questioning why residents still lack basic water infrastructure and medical care despite such massive investments.
3. The Demand for a National Disaster Declaration
By declaring a National Disaster, the government can:
Mobilize Emergency Funds: It allows the Treasury to reallocate budgets toward immediate water trucking and relief food.
Attract International Aid: Global NGOs and UN agencies often require an official government declaration before they can release high-level emergency funding.
Livestock Offtake Programs: Gachagua urged the government to buy weakening animals from herders at fair prices to cushion them against total financial loss.
